Minoru Kiuchi, Minister of State for Special Missions, visits Wako Campus

On July 23, Minoru Kiuchi, a Minister of State for Special Missions at Japan’s Cabinet Office, visited RIKEN’s Wako Campus.

The visit began with an introduction to RIKEN from RIKEN President Makoto Gonokami. This was followed by a tour of TRIP Headquarters and the research frontlines at the RIKEN Nishina Center for Accelerator-Based Science (RNC).

At TRIP Headquarters, Director Masashi Kawasaki explained their activities to ensure research security in the implementation of quantum science and technology research and gave a tour of the facilities.

At the RNC, Center Director Hiroyoshi Sakurai gave a tour of the Radioactive Isotope Beam Factory (RIBF), which can synthesize a variety of elements using the world’s most powerful heavy ion beam.

At a roundtable discussion with researchers with overseas experience, Minister Kiuchi asked questions and engaged in discussion in English with researchers about the appeal of Japan for researchers, including aspects such as the research environment, culture, and living environment.

Minister Kiuchi engaged in a lively exchange of opinions with President Gonokami and others regarding the future direction of research in Japan and support for such research, and he expressed strong expectations for RIKEN’s future initiatives and communication both within Japan and overseas.

Minister Kiuchi asking a question about the Superconducting Ring Cyclotron (SRC) (second from left)

Minister Kiuchi (left) engaging in discussion with researchers with overseas experience

A photo in the lobby of the Administrative Headquarters building (Minister Kiuchi pictured fourth from left; President Gonokami pictured fourth from right)